HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

Home Decor Ideas: How to Decorate with Velvet

how-to-decorate-with-velvet

Velvet is making a come back! So if you pay close attention to fashion you have probably noticed the influence of the 90’s (chokers, brown lipstick and baby doll dresses just to name a few of the styles that have bounced back into trend).

Well like fashion from the runways we definitely see the influence of women’s fashion translate into our homes.  One of the trends you will be seeing this coming year (but we are already seeing it in some stores) is VELVET! Yes, that’s right Velvet.  The luxurious fabric that you just have to touch when you see it.  In the 90’s we saw a lot of velvet jackets, skirts, tops and dresses and this year we will see it in home fashion.

If you are a follower of fashion and you love to be on trend – this is definitely for you! 

Here are some Home decor Ideas with Velvet:

1.  Velvet Throw Pillows –

this is an easy way to bring this trend into your space without spending a fortune.  The touchable fabric adds a bit of luxury to a space but also visual interest.  We always suggest mixing textures to give your space a sophisticated and designer look.  The great news is when it comes to velvet, the colour choices are truly endless.  Find a pillow or two in velvet in a colour that coordinates with your existing scheme.  We love to see oversized pillows (think 20×20) in velvet for the living room or bedroom. A solid colour velvet pillow can really add to a space.

2. Velvet Throw blanket –

again another easy nod to the trend that won’t cost you a ton.  Like the throw pillow, choose a colour that will work with your current room palette.  The texture of this throw will really add a new level of sophistication to the space.

3. Velvet Ottoman or Pouf  –

We have seen a ton of velvet ottomans in stores lately.  We have also seen a lot of ottoman styles in velvet – tufted, round, bench with legs etc…Like the pillows and the throw this adds that sophisticated element to a room, this is a bit more expensive so be sure to like the idea of velvet before really committing.  We love to see a velvet ottoman in a rich jewel tone – it’s a bit glamour but still timeless. Think living room, bedroom, glamorous office space or front entry – make a statement!

4. Velvet Dining chairs or armchair –

this starts to get a bit pricier but if you want to make a statement in your space this would be one!  If you love to make a splash and want to be remembered for your decor choices – velvet chairs are one way to go.  We do love an accent chair and velvet is a way to make a bold pop in a space.  Think of a great accent chair in a living room or chairs in a dining space.  We love the softness and luxury that velvet brings but pair it with some modern elements like a glass table and a touch of gold – so chic!

5. Velvet Headboard –

love the idea of velvet but not for your main living space? It makes a sophisticated splash in a bedroom.  We love a nail head headboard but in velvet, wow – that’s stunning!  We prefer sticking with a timeless hue as it is easy to work with as you change your bed linens but it will also always be in style.  It looks great paired with metallic lamps and oversized end tables.

6. Velvet Sofa –

If you LOVE velvet, a sofa in velvet might be for you.  It is a classic fabric so it won’t go out of style.  You can be as classic as you like in terms of style of sofa and colour or you can be as bold and bright as you like.  It is a commitment so be sure to follow you heart.  We love the look of a charcoal or navy velvet sofa with clean lines and minimal pillows – it has a clean, sexy and chic look.  We have also see some fun vintage sofas in bright and fun colours – it’s entirely up to you!

7. Velvet accent chair –

Accent chairs do exactly that add an accent! So try adding some colour and texture with some luxe velvet armchairs!

Remember velvet isn’t exactly family friendly, so be sure to pick velvet accessories or furniture pieces with that in mind – it’s easier to dry clean a pillow or throw than it is a sofa, for instance…..

Texture is one of my favourite elements to add to a room and velvet adds so much luxury, sophistication and class. What do you think of this trend?

0 comment
Share:
HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – White Walls

we-answer-wednesday-white-walls

“I love the look of white walls, it’s so clean and bright but everyone keeps telling me that my home will look sterile and cold if I paint my walls white.  Any advise or suggestions?”

 

Paint can really transform a room – it can make it bright and bold, dark and sultry or light and airy….we love what paint can do for a room.  sometimes picking the right colour can be a BIG challenge.  The under tones of paint can really shine through depending on the light, time of day, and surrounding finishes. 

 

So we never recommend falling in love with a paint colour in a store – you really need to see it in the space and over the course of a day.  We are huge fans of testing out swatches on a wall and not just looking at a small chip. Some paint companies do offer large (like 8×11) chips that you can tape to the wall – this is a great option to explore! Use the small chips to narrow down your choices but get the samples or large hips to really see what the colour will look like.

 

When it comes to white – the choices are plentiful! You have warm whites, cool whites, blue whites, pink whites, grey whites etc…..Every white looks different in every space.  All white walls is a very clean look.  It can look sterile if you aren’t careful.

 

Here are points to consider when it comes to painting your walls white:

1. Consider the natural light source.

Before painting a room white, identify its orientation. Rooms that face away from the noonday sun receive gray-blue light, which is great for a summer bedroom, a gym or a studio where you want constancy. A clear white paint will optimize the light of these spaces while keeping things cool.

The same white color, though, would not work in a north-facing family room in a cool, snowy climate. White’s visual relationship to the snow and ice outside the windows would be visually chilling. Instead, try tinting
your white with red, yellow or orange or selecting a color from Benjamin Moore’s Off-White Collection for rooms where you plan to eat, socialize and linger.

 

2.  What’s outside affects what’s inside.

Rooms with a view of the ocean can be spectacular. For a summer residence, white walls can enhance the benefits of living by the sea, opening the house up and bringing the cool water view closer.

If you have already decided to paint your walls white and your home has a breathtaking view, consider painting the trim to match. Eliminating the delineation between the walls and woodwork with white paint will allow the landscape to remain frameless, expanding the view’s presence in your home. This strategy (painting both walls and trim the same), used to drop out the architecture obstructing the view, can be used with any color, but it is most effective with white because of its reflectivity.

 

3.  Reconsider the gallery look.

There’s a reason galleries paint their walls and trim the same bright, white paint color. It drops out the architectural details and focuses attention on the artwork. The same method works for homes, too.

Remember white does show off imperfections – scuffs, nail pops and more…so be prepared for regular maintenance.  This is not the best option for families with young children and the pure and crisp colour is not very forgiving.

4.  Pay attention to history.

White is classic, formal, refined and restrained in style. For your Greek revival or federal interiors, white will be expected on trim and on walls in the kitchen and third-floor bedrooms. Make the mistake of painting everything white, and your home will look like a builder’s “flip.”

 

5.  Use white to expand spaces.

Rooms painted white appear larger due to the amplification of light. Shadows and edges also diminish in white spaces. When creating a palette for your home, try to keep in mind that cool white drops back in space and can be used to enlarge and open your smaller spaces.

 

We recommend making selections that you love – you should be surrounded by the looks and styles that you love.  To keep white walls from looking sterile we suggest: keeping some art, wall decor or photos on the walls – they will pop off the walls.  Stick with a white that has a satin or semi-gloss finish so you have a reflective finish (a flat or eggshell finish in white never looks rich). Take the time to pick the right white. We also love to mix white walls with texture – so look at floors, window dressings, plants, decor accessories even fireplace mantles to add some texture and character in the space.

White walls is a great look and perfect for anyone with a great view, great art pieces and lots of texture in their space.

White is so clean and crisp and we love how the shades vary. There’s a white tone for every home and every style!

0 comment
Share:
HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Style a Front Entry

we-answer-wednesday-how-to-style-fron

“I have a small table in my front hall.  It’s great for mail and keys but it’s a bit messy!  I want my front entry to look welcoming and neat – any ideas how to make my entry table look stylish?”

 

An entry table in the front hall is a very functional piece.  You are right it is perfect for mail and keys but it can become a bit of a dumping ground.  A lot of that is habit  so you need to train yourself (and others) to put things like backpacks and other items elsewhere i.e a closet, office or bedroom.

 

But we also believe that if your space is beautiful (by your definition) than you will be more motivated to keep it that way.

 

The front entry table sets the tone for your home and can also be an inviting first impression for guests.

 

Styling your front entry table is all about using the space in a beautiful and practical way. 

Here are some musts:

 

1 – Light

– many front entries have an overhead light fixture but in our opinion you can never have too much light.  Plus having a table lamp on the entry table (assuming you have a wall outlet for it) is handy if you arrive home late or leave early and don’t want to wake the whole house with bright overhead lighting.  When it comes to table lamps you have some many choices – find one that suits and flows with the look of your home. How many lamps should you have? We say one is usually sufficient especially if it is a small space with a small table but if you have a long table in a large entry, 2 table lamps is a nice balance.

 

2- Mirrors

– we love mirrors at the front entry – they play two roles, 1: a great way to take a final look at hair, make up etc…before you head out to wherever you are off too; 2: it allows light to bounce around the room making a smaller and tighter space like an entry feel larger.  If you already have a mirrored surface, like mirrored closet bi-fold doors, opt for an art piece instead.

 

3 – Storage

– part of the front entry is storage, so make it pretty! A bowl on the table is perfect for keys or loose change, it keeps it all contained, easy to access but also hidden (so the surface looks neat).  We also love a basket for two under the entry table – this is ideal for mitts, hats in cooler weather but also summer gear like hats and sunscreen.  Have a dog? Hide their leashes etc. in a basket. Again easy access but neat!

 

4 – Seating

– this is a nice addition if you have the space.  Under the entry table is a great spot to tuck away a small bench, cube ottoman…  Pull it out when guests neat a spot to sit and put on their shoes.  This is also another way to add to your decor – you can have one with some print, colour and/or texture.

 

5 –  Decor

– we’ve covered the necessities of the front hall table and now it’s time to add your personal style! There are many decor items that you can add to the table to add your touch – framed photos, flowers or a plant, or just a decorative item.  Be sure to have room for the necessary pieces and then layer your decor.  The amount of decor depends on the amount of space you have.  We like to vary the heights and shapes and stick with odd numbers.  Keep in mind if your entry table is more functional or decorative (some people have a second entry that is more functional and keep the front entry more beautiful)

 

 

Also if you are selling your home, remember that your potential buyers will also be walking in the front door.  A styled front entry sends a great message and sets the tone.  So be sure to pay attention to your front entry!

4 comments
Share:
HOME DECOR

How to Decorate with Stripes

how-to-decorate-with-stripes

Stripes are a classic and even better they can work with any decor style!  If you have read any of our posts, you know that we love a print and mixing patterns.  So if you are thinking of trying out a pattern in your space consider a stripe – it’s very transitional, it come in all scales and colours, too! You can’t go wrong!  Not sure where to add this classic pattern? We have some ideas for you!

Wall treatment

– whether it’s wall paper or a streamlined paint job – try stripe son the wall.  You can get as big and bold as you like in terms of colour and scale – or opt for a classic neutral. It could fill an entire room or just an accent wall.  We also love to layer our patterns, so don’t be shy to add some art, photography and mirrors over your striped wall.

Pillows

– this is an easy addition (or subtraction) in a room.  Adding some printed pillows can completely elevate the look of your room.  There’s just something about a pattern that adds a designer look to a space.  Some of the great things about pillows is that they aren’t permanent, the selection is endless and they are affordable!  On a sofa, side chair, bed – they work everywhere!

Furniture

– this might be an intimidating step for many but trust us!  A stripe furniture piece can really add a WOW factor to a space.  We do recommend sticking with a neutral palette if you are opting for a pattern piece – it’s easier to work with long term as you want to change up your decor.  And for someone that likes neutrals this can add another sophisticated element to your room, mix it with some other patterns and some solid to give it a designer look.

Drapery

– We love what window coverings can do to a space – from a functional side but also a decor side – sure they block the sunlight (or an unpleasant view) but also add a softness and again, visual interest in a room.  Whether it’s panels or roman blinds – we love them both!  This is a great option for a living space, dining room and a bedroom – we love a stripe window treatment in a kids’ room so timeless and it can grow up with them!

Floor covering

– we love area rugs in any room, they add another layer of softness, they are nice on bare feet,  they pull a room together and of course, it’s another opportunity to add some pattern.  Area rugs can be pricey depending on the size and material you choose, so if you are concerned about budget consider a classic pattern like a stripe.  A stripe area rug is a classic (we have said this a few times, but it’s true!).

Outdoor furniture and accessories

– decorating your outdoor living space is no longer boring! There are so many options for furniture, umbrellas and accessories, too.  We love the look of a stripe in an outdoor space, it’s so fresh and clean! Pillows, umbrellas, cushions and even rugs – it’s up to you!

Stripes are everything – fun, classic, fresh, bold, and also soft – it’s all about the colour tones and what you mix them with this print – you can’t go wrong with bringing stripes into your world…

0 comment
Share:
HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Wall decor Ideas (other than artwork)

we-answer-wednesday-wall-decor-ideas

“I’m looking for some ideas to decorate my empty wall space.  I do love art but I would like to see if there are other options out there that could add a unique look to my home”

 

Art and other wall decor pieces are a great way to add some visual interest in your space but it’s also a great way to add colour and texture plus you can really show off your style through art.

 

We are seeing a lot of options for wall decor besides a stretched canvas or framed print.

 

Here are ideas:

 

1.  Fabric or Wall paper

– you can use these material as an accent wall but why not frame them and have some creative wall panels. You can make these panels are big as you like and the really customize the look plus this is a great way to add some unique flair to a rental without losing your damage deposit.

 

2. Wood

– wood is going to be a big trend for 2016.  It has great texture, character and warmth too.  We will see a lot of wood in furniture but also art.  We certainly did see accent walls in reclaimed and distressed wood planks and fun signs but we are seeing wood in art as well.

 

3. Mirrors

– this is not a new idea but one way to add some light to a room is to add a mirror(s).  There are so many shapes and styles of mirrors, too.  Mirrors look great layered over an accent wall or on it’s own.  Try mixing in mirrors in a  gallery wall – or a gallery wall of just mirrors – mixing up mirrors  in different shapes and frames is another unique touch to a room.

 

4. Floating shelves

– this is a clean and easy way to display a series of pieces you want to show off.  On a floating shelf anything can really work – small plants (real or faux), framed photos, decor pieces etc…For the shelves themselves you have lots of options in terms of colours and materials.

 

5. An oversized wall clock

– this is both function and fashion.  This fills up the space and is visually appealing but it is also very useful.  there are so many styles of clocks to choose from too.  We love the aged clock in this image flanked by the candle sconces.

 

6. Animal heads

– so we have seen this trend for a few years now and maybe it has reached it’s peak but we are seeing different and unexpected animal heads.  People are using them in different places too like kids rooms and nurseries.  We have also seen them in a variety of materials – papier mache, resin, faux fur, wood, metal and wire. They are nice in an eclectic gallery wall, or just on their own.  Trend or not, if you like it – go for it!

 

7. Maps

– so this can be purely decorative but also educational.  It’s a great addition if you love to travel – it’s a great way to show off your interests through decor.  Map come is all sorts of shapes and sizes – full wall paper or oversized framed maps.  The colours vary too – soft ‘aged’ beige tones to bright and vivid colours.

 

8. Wall decals

– wall vinyls have come a long way – they are easy to stick on and peel off.  There are so many possibilities too – inspirational quotes to images and everything in between. So this is another great option for someone living in a rental that wants to add some ‘pop’ to their space or for someone that changes their mind often.

 

Which wall treatments do you like? Which ones have you used? What ever you decide make sure it suits you and your space and don’t ever feel like you have to follow the latest trends!

0 comment
Share:
INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Layer your rugs

we-answer-wednesday-how-to-layer-your

“I see cowhide rugs everywhere.  I purchased one but it’s too small for my living room.  How can I use it ?”

Cowhide (real or faux) is a great way to add some natural animal elements to a room and also some texture.  We love how every cowhide is unique – it’s adds a cool and organic element to a room.  But you are right the size can be tricky especially in a larger room.

Try this – it’s actually a great trick for any area rug that you want to use that’s too small…

Layer it!

Yes, that’s right – layer it!  OK let us explain.  The cowhide is going to add a great graphic pop or natural texture to your space.  Underneath the cowhide use another rug in the correct size – in a neutral tone (we highly recommend a rug that is close in tone to the wall to wall floors).  We love the look of another natural textured rug like a sea grass or sisal or recycled leather but it doesn’t have to be.

Here are some examples:

Here the black and white cowhide is layered over a natural sisal – the mix of textures adds an extra element to the room.  Also the black and white pillows add even more visual interest in the space.

Try layering multiple rugs in one room.  Keep the largest one in a neutral and then the medium one is next and lat the smallest.  Feel free to lay them in an off set manner.  They don’t need to be completely centered and perfect. We like the look in this clean and modern space.  The walls being white allow for a ‘busier’ floor.  Notice the cream rug is layered with a black and white stripe and a cow hide.  It adds such a sophisticated feel to the space.

This is also a great way to update a space that has wall to wall carpet

You might think that this technique doesn’t make a difference but it does!  The larger rug pulls the eye out and wide and the smaller rug adds a pop of colour/print so the room still looks big and spacious whereas just having an area rug that’s too small will make the room appear small as well. In order for this to be effective – the largest rug must be of the proper size for the room.

You can also angle the rugs – they don’t have to be straight on and centered. This can work in any room, too!

This is a great way to still use your favourite area rugs even though they are too small!

0 comment
Share:
HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 10 Best Timeless Patterns

we-answer-wednesday-10-best-timeless

“I love the idea of adding some pattern to my home but I am so afraid to commit.  I really don’t want to spend on something that won’t be in style for a while. Any suggestions on pattern that won’t go out of style?”

 

You are right making a commitment especially one with a bigger price can be nerve wracking but have no fear there are some classic patterns that you can add to your space that will not only compliment but will add a level of sophistication to your home.

 

Pattern textiles are perfect for upholstery, drapery and accent pillows.  Be sure to speak with your local textile expert to ensure that you have the right fabric for the use.

 

Here are some classic fabric patterns that you can bring into your space without any

regret.

 

Pinstripe:

Much thinner and more subdued than a normal stripe, these patterns add a faint, menswear detail to upholstery and pillows.  But any stripe is a classic but we love the look of this menswear inspired look. A stripe can be paired with other patterns as well – Mixing patterns adds real sophistication and a designer look to a space. This modern chair in a navy pinstripe fabric with shiny gold arm looks incredibly chic!

 

Toile de Jouy:

De jouy fabric originated in France in the 1760s. The original patterns usually depicted pastoral scenes; today there are many pattern choices and colors available.  Other patterns include more exotic Chinese themes became popular, as did famous moments from history. All were hand-drawn in a curvaceous style with fine detail that was then etched onto wood blocks and printed onto the fabric.

Certainly a more traditional option but if you use it and pair it with the right pieces it can work with a rustic country space – pair it with furniture that is clean and streamlined, so it doesn’t look fussy. Or use it as an accent wall with wallpaper

 

Fretwork:

These are geometric, interlaced patterns with sharp angles. Similar to the repeated nature of latticework but the design can be more complex, like a Greek key. There are many patterns with a geometric repeating pattern that fall into this category – your choices are endless and so are the colour options.  This works beautifully in any space including bedrooms and even nurseries but it also pairs well with other prints – we love it with florals.

 

Tree of Life:

These sprawling nature-inspired prints are characterized by scrolling vines, flowers, leaves, and birds. The patterns are typically very large in scale and are great for draperies.  Not sure if florals are your ‘thing’? Try incorporating them into art.  A simple fabric swatch or wallpaper sample in a frame with matting and frame – looks clean and modern and adds a pop of pattern with zero commitment and very little cost.

Seen here this botanical fabric has been used as a wall panel for a pop of colour and great visual interest in this room.  Plus see how it works with the trellis (fretwork) ottoman

Damask:

A reversible fabric commonly woven in silks and wools and printed on linens and cottons. The repeating medallion-like designs are often done in a single color with the ground (base cloth) in a flat finish and the
design in a sateen. Modern print versions are interpreted in more high-contrast color combos.

For a while Damask wall paper accent walls were all the rage – we saw them everywhere – that trends has softened a bit (high contrast less popular and more tone-on-tone is what we are seeing) but the pattern itself is a classic and it also pairs well with any fretwork.  A Damask accent chair with a Fretwork area rug is a gorgeous combination. Damask can be fussy is paired with fussy and formal things.  See the image below – using Damask in a roman shade is a clean and modern use yet it has great visual interest in this clean and modern space. We also love the pairing with the stripe area rug.

 

Ogee:

Described as a bit of a mod look – another repeating pattern – it looks like strings of stacked onions.  This pattern comes in various scales and sizes and of course, colour combinations.  This is perfect for drapery but we love it as an accent pillow.  See the image below for an example of Ogee – the grey on grey bedding in this print is so sophisticated but still visually interesting.

 

Suzani:

Likely a term you haven’t heard but you will recognize this tribal influenced pattern. These patterns are based off of the tribal textiles of Central Asia, Suzani’s feature colorful, circular shapes intertwined with vines, flowers, leaves, and fruits. Often seen in vibrant and bold colour combinations – so this is a pattern that makes a real statement! It’s perfect for little pops like accent pillows or bold splashes like an accent chair or bedding.

To maintain the focus on this bold print, keep the other piece simple and clean.  In the image below, the head of the bed frame and other bedding is just plain and simple, the bedside lighting is also simple, even the art is under stated – the bedding coverlet makes the statement and the overhead fixture makes a splash just a smaller one.  But this entire room works!

 

Ikat:

This is technically a term for the resist dyeing technique used to produce the painterly patterns seen on these fabrics. Similar to a tie dye, but ikat threads are dyed first, then constructed into cloth yielding the meandering look which is insanely popular right now.  It is a combination of this organic almost tribal feel paired with the geometry of fretwork or even a more floral damask feel – the line work is softer in appearance due to the technique, so if you don’t like really clean lines this might be a good option for you. 

Plus the colour possibilities are endless.  And it pairs beautifully with simple stripes. We love these Ikat upholstered dining chairs seats – the colour combination is fresh – it has a softer damask look which adds a bit of a casual nature to the room but still so chic.

 

Chevron:

A repeating V or zig zag pattern, almost like a clean stripe just with a slight modification.  In recent ears – this pattern was seen everywhere from drapery to pillows to nurseries.  We saw this in every colour imaginable but the grey and white was probably the most popular.  

It is still a classic even though it is no longer trending. It looks great as an accent pillow. Seeing the chevron in an area rug adds a pop to the room but because it is in neutral tones it isn’t trendy. and this simple and neutral chevron is a great backdrop if you wanted to add some other patterns to the room like pillows for instance.

 

Animal print:

Some say that an animal print is tacky but that is more about amount and application.  Animal prints in a neutral colour wave are a great way to add some fun or glamour into your space without bold injections of colour.  Animal print is  also true to nature so it works with anyone opting for a more natural look. 

Many animal prints mix well with other prints so you really can have a lot of fun.  Don’t go overboard with animal print everywhere and on everything – that’s when it gets tacky!

 

Polka-dots:

Are another classic print – this works really well for kids rooms in a fabric or even vinyl decals on the wall.  This print can be bold depending on size/scale and colour combination but it can also be subtle.  Plus it works well with other prints -the polka dot sheets are a great backdrop for this WOW bed – the polka dots add a bit of fun and whimsy to the room instead of a solid sheet.  You could also opt for the reverse – polka dots on the wall and plain sheets.

When it comes to adding some print and pattern into your space, start off slow (especially if you aren’t adventurous), add some accent pillows or bedding first – this is pretty low risk and easy to replace if you don’t like it.  Next try a dining chair seat in upholstery (this is also a great and simple DIY project). 

If you are loving the addition of pattern in your space – take the leap with drapery and an area rug.  Pattern is nothing to be afraid of – have some fun!!

0 comment
Share:
INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, KITCHENS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to pick the right Kitchen Island seating options

we-answer-wednesday-how-to-pick-rig

“I’m moving into a house this fall and we have a kitchen island.  I’m excited to have seating at the island.  I’ve never purchased stools before what should I be looking for?”

First off – Congrats on the move!  How exciting!!

A kitchen island is definitely something to be excited about – they offer so much extra kitchen space in terms of prepping, serving or just hanging out.  We love kitchen islands!

When it comes to seating at your island the first thing you need to be 100% aware of is the height of the island.  Is it bar height? Is it counter height? Or is the (seating space) table height?  This is the number 1 thing you need to know before making any purchase.

For a bar height:

(This is usually described as a breakfast bar, usually there is a part of the island that is raised. sometimes we see a raised portion on a kitchen peninsula). A 30-inch stool is the perfect height for a standard 42-inch bar or counter top but anywhere between 28″ and 33″ will work . Bar-height stools are also ideal for a work space, like the garage. These are the same size stools you see in a restaurant or bar and are taller than the average dining chair. Ideal for standard built-in bars. Not ideal for small children

For counter height:

This is an island that is the same height as the rest of your counter tops. These stools are the ideal height for a 36-inch counter or to have on their own for extra seating. Counter-height bar stools are smaller than the typical stool you see in restaurant or bar, but are a great addition to your home bar or kitchen space, they range in height from 24″ to 27″. Popular option for kitchen islands and easy to use for most people

For table height:

(We see this a lot in condos) the island usually has a portion of the island that is counter height and then a portion that dips down to table height.  This is in lieu of a kitchen or dining table. Table-height stools are shorter than counter or bar stools and can be a good alternative to chairs at a dining table or breakfast nook. Generally between 16 and 23 inches tall. Offers a casual look; often without backs. Great choice for small children and kids’ seating

*this is an example of the kitchen island counter top with only a slight over hang – this would not be the main eating space but perfect for hanging out while watch the host cook.

 
Other measurements to consider when choosing a bar stool are the spaces between each stool as well as between the stool and the surface height.

For stool spacing…

look to have about 26 to 30 inches measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows for optimal space for eating, working, and socializing. For leg spacing, account for 9 to 12 inches between the stool seat and the underside of your counter top or bar surface. We suggest a counter top over hang of 15″-18″ if this is going to be a main eating area.

When it comes to style…

the possibilities are truly endless but take a few things into consideration.  If this is a main seating/dining area – mid to full backs are a comfortable option.  If your are tight on space look for options that are sleeker and not bulky, backless stools tuck under counter top over hangs really nicely.  If you have room for lots of seating but don’t really have a lot of guests over, try mixing styles – that way you have the supportive comfort but also some spare seating when you need it and your kitchen won’t look or feel cramped.


This image is a great example of mixing stool styles.  The full back upholstered stools are comfortable and perfect for everyday use.  The backless adjustable cowhide stools add some extra seating when needed.

 I hope these measurements help you find the proper stools for your kitchen island…use this as a guide and pick a style that suits you, the possibilities are endless!

SHOP STOOLS + KITCHEN FURNITURE + DECOR….

0 comment
Share:
INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Decorate with Red

we-answer-wednesday-how-to-decorate

“I love red.  I have lots of red accents in my house like pillows and some art.  I want to add a new colour in the mix but still keep the red.  What works with red?”

 

Red is a bold colour and it can really make a statement on it’s own but we agree with you adding in a secondary accent colour can really change up the look of your space.

 

Although red is big and punchy you do have options for a second accent colour.

 

Red and charcoal grey.

This is a great choice if your main furniture pieces are black or even a dark espresso or the opposite, white.  We also like mixing red and charcoal with a lighter grey sofa like the image below.

 

Red and Aqua blue.

If you like a bit of the unexpected this is a good option for you.  the aqua or turquoise combined with the red makes a bright and colourful statement – plus you can add some white for a clean almost beach-y look or some golden yellows for even more pop! In a case like this a pattern piece like this pillows bring this unexpected colour combo together!

 

Red and White.

A classic combination and you can’t go wrong with it! This can work with any style: country to modern – it just depends on the pieces.  Here we have an example of a country bedroom it is so fresh and inviting.  The distressed iron bed frame in red is just another way to add some colour into the room.

 

Red and Pink.

Yes you can!!  Again another unexpected combination but it definitely makes a statement! Again if you like the idea of mixing these two bold hues look for a piece that brings them together like a patterned pillow, area rug or an art piece. Keep the supporting neutrals clean and crisp like in this image – the pure white bedding and the soft grey drapes and bench are a perfect back drop for these bright tones!

 

Red and Navy Blue.

This look can be a bit nautical but that depends on a lot of the decor items you choose.  This is another classic combination and it is truly timeless. See the image below for some inspiration in this colour palette that is not nautical in theme.

 

Red and Dark Brown.

This is such a warmth combination and you can really add smaller accents to this look as well.  Take some inspiration from the image below. The mix of the dark brown wall and red furniture adds warmth and richness to the space.  The pattern rug and pillow add some golden tones into this mix as well.  This has a bit more of an eclectic feel but it is very chic.

 

 

Red is so versatile in terms of both style and colour pairings.  Don’t be afraid to try any combination!

0 comment
Share:
BATHROOMS, KITCHENS, TRENDS

How to Use Pattern Tiles

how-to-use-pattern-tiles

 Pattern tile is everywhere these days! We started seeing them really emerge in the past 2 years or so.  They made a big splash at recent Design Shows, too!  They can really add a unique touch to a space.  Like the wallpaper accent trend they add some boldness or whimsy to a room but too much can just be overwhelming.

If you like the look of a print or pattern, how can you use the pattern tile in a way that won’t overwhelm or get ‘tired’ quickly.

1.  Use a pattern tile in a small space like a bathroom.

For a few reasons, it won’t be too overwhelming because the pattern isn’t everywhere and also, should you decide to change it in a few years or so it won’t be a huge undertaking. This image has the pattern tile on the floor in a neutral palette it is soft but still makes an impact.

 

2.  Stick with one pattern in the space.

When it comes to fashion mixing patterns is very chic but when it comes to pattern tile – to make the most impact stick with one pattern in the room (other wise it just gets too busy) keep the other pieces like cabinetry and paint pretty low key and solid. We love the backsplash tile here with the stainless hood fan and stove and against the white -Can you say?  #wowfactor

3.  Use it as an accent.

See a pattern tile you love but concerns that it might be a bit over the top? Treat it like the wallpaper accent wall – only tile one wall in the tile and keep the rest plain but complimentary. This blue pattern tile is busy and if the entire shower surround was covered in this tile it would be very overwhelming and likely not as pretty.  This accent tile makes a statement. A little pattern tile can go a long way

If pattern tile is still just a bit too much for you but you want something different, consider lay out and shape.

Take some inspiration from this kitchen back splash. Typically we see rectangular tiles in a stacked formation or brick but this herringbone pattern adds some great visual interest to this classic kitchen. The herringbone arrangement also looks great in a shower surround in a 3×6 standard subway tile but also looks great on the floor in a 12 x 24 tile!

Trying adding just a tiny pop of pattern tile. In the image below we have a shower surround in a neutral subway tile in a dove grey tone in a brick layout but look at the shower shelf, a pop of print – so great!

The hexagon tile is another great option if you are open to new shapes – this can give you a modern look or a more vintage style depending on the size of tile.  You can also get a more traditional look depending on the material you choose.  Sometime a new shape can give you a whole new look without going crazy with colour or pattern.

Pattern tile is a lot like wallpaper – it adds a touch of personality and designer flare! Use it sparingly or make a splashy statement…

1 comment
Share:
1…4849505152…66